Software Engineer - Open Source Cambridge, UK

Cambridge, UK | Full-time | Permanent | Hybrid

We will also consider part‑time applications for this role. Please indicate your preferred working schedule in your cover letter.

About us

Riverlane’s mission is to master quantum error correction (QEC) and unlock a new age of human progress. From advances in material and climate science, to complex chemistry simulation for new drug design, quantum computers will help humanity solve some of its most important challenges. But without QEC, the industry’s defining technical challenge, such breakthroughs can never be achieved. Riverlane is the world leader in QEC technology. QEC is a complex problem that requires a range of skills, talent and passion.

Having raised more than $125M in funding to date to accelerate our cutting‑edge R&D in quantum error correction (QEC), Riverlane partners with many of the world’s leading quantum hardware providers and government agencies to make fault‑tolerant quantum computing a reality. We’re making remarkable progress and growing fast.

About the role

At Riverlane, our mission is to make it possible for anyone to write and run fault‑tolerant programs on a quantum computer. A key part of that mission is Deltakit, our open‑source, user‑facing software platform for building, simulating and interpreting QEC experiments. As a Software Engineer, you will play a central role in shaping and evolving Deltakit, ensuring it continues to meet the needs of a rapidly growing and highly technical community.

This is a role at the intersection of research and engineering. You’ll work closely with leading experts in QEC, translating cutting‑edge ideas into robust, intuitive software that researchers can rely on. Your work will directly influence how users interact with Riverlane’s software ecosystem, helping to bridge the gap between theoretical advances and practical application.

Beyond building features, you’ll engage actively with our user community, supporting adoption, understanding how people are using Deltakit, and turning feedback into thoughtful, well‑engineered improvements. Through this, you’ll help strengthen Riverlane’s position at the forefront of QEC software while ensuring the tools we build are genuinely impactful and accessible.

Riverlane is tackling ambitious challenges in a fast‑moving, emerging field. You’ll be part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team where ideas are shared openly and learning never stops. As the technology and its applications evolve, so too will the problems we solve, offering plenty of opportunity to grow, adapt, and make a meaningful contribution to the future of quantum computing.

What you will do

• Build parts of both the internal and external software stack for error‑corrected quantum computing systems
• Design and build quantum software productivity tools to represent and debug quantum programs
• Design and implement parts of the QEC compiler stack whenever necessary
• Work closely with scientists and engineers to implement practical and scalable solutions
• Write correct and maintainable code
• Actively participate in the Deltakit open‑source community

What we need

We are considering a range of experience and are therefore advertising this role at different levels of seniority. Please apply to the role you feel best suits your skills and experience.

• Curious, fast learner with an interest in quantum computing and complex technical problems
• Strong technical foundation (e.g. computer science, maths, physics or similar)
• Proficient in Python, with experience building efficient, high‑quality software
• Good understanding of the software stack and ability to deliver to deadlines
• Collaborative team player with experience working across diverse groups
• Clear communicator, comfortable engaging with both users and colleagues
• Interest in open‑source and user‑focused software development
• Adaptable and proactive in a fast‑moving, evolving environment

What you can expect from us

• A comprehensive benefits package that includes an annual bonus plan, private medical insurance, life insurance, and a contributory pension scheme
• Equity, so that our team can share in the long‑term success of Riverlane
• 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and enhanced family leave
• A diverse work environment that brings together experts in many fields (including software and hardware development, quantum information theory, physics and maths) and over 20 different nationalities
• A learning environment that encourages individual, team and company growth and development, including a regular programme of learning events and training and conference budgets

Everyone is welcome at Riverlane. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from eligible and suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender reassignment, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity/paternity.

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